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Porto Palermo Castle

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Porto Palermo Castle (Albania)

Weather…

Porto Palermo Castle is an impressive fortress situated on a small peninsula in one of the most beautiful bays of the Ionian Sea. For a long time, its construction was attributed to Ali Pasha of Tepelena, who supposedly built the castle in the early 19th century to control the coast; however, recent research suggests it is built on the foundations of an older Venetian fortress. The castle is striking for its unique triangular plan with three massive bastions at the corners, connected by thick walls. Inside, there are dark vaulted corridors and casemates that once served as storage and barracks. During the Cold War, Porto Palermo Bay was a strictly guarded naval base featuring a secret submarine tunnel, which adds a mysterious aura to the region. Today, the castle is open to visitors and has a fascinating contrast between the military severity of the architecture and the pristine beauty of the Albanian Riviera.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C771013182326262117128
Rain mm11910491585028162484110140150

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Porto Palermo Castle sits in an easy on the eye bay and is open to visitors. You can explore the triangular fortress and the inner courtyard, which is often empty.
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Typical hours
The fortress is typically open daily during peak season from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Off-season hours may vary - please check in advance.
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Photography
Photography is allowed both inside and outside the fortress. The bay and turquoise waters make for excellent photo subjects.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the visit. The site is compact, but the view encourages lingering.
Combine with
The castle is on the Albanian Riviera and can be combined with a swim stop at the beaches of Himarë or Jale. The nearby Himarë Castle is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The castle is directly on the coastal road SH8 between Himarë and Saranda. Parking is available near the entrance. A private car is the most convenient way.
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Insider tip
Visit the castle in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light over the bay. Bring swimwear - the water around the fortress is clear and inviting.

Geography

Coordinates
40.06220, 19.79110

Facts

  • Features a unique and rare triangular floor plan.
  • Likely reinforced or rebuilt by Ali Pasha around 1804.
  • Served as part of a Soviet naval base during the 20th century.
  • A secret 650-meter-long submarine tunnel is located nearby.
  • The three bastions were specifically designed for cannon placement.
  • Located in one of the deepest and most sheltered Ionian bays.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Porto Palermo Castle (3)

Porto Palermo Beach🎡 recreation

This scenic stretch of beach extends directly below the imposing castle of Porto Palermo. Crystal-clear water and stony shores invite for a swim in a setting steeped in history. Visitors like to enjoy extensive sunbathing here after a castle tour. A great place for photographers and history buffs who love swimming.

Plazhi i Llamanit🎡 recreation

Sandy beach in a sheltered cove below Porto Palermo Castle.

Plazhi i Panormasë🎡 recreation

Pebble beach in Panorma Bay near Porto Palermo Castle.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is unique about Porto Palermo Castle?
The castle has a rare triangular layout with round towers at the corners.
Who built Porto Palermo Castle?
It is believed that Ali Pasha of Tepelena built or reinforced it in the early 19th century.
What are the opening hours of the castle?
The castle is typically accessible daily from 08:00 to 19:00.
What is located near Porto Palermo Castle?
Nearby is an old, decommissioned submarine base from the Cold War era.
Are there beaches near the castle?
Yes, the Bay of Porto Palermo features crystal-clear water and several small pebble beaches.
Porto Palermo Castle: where is it located?
Porto Palermo Castle is located in Albania.
Porto Palermo Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Porto Palermo Beach, Plazhi i Llamanit, Plazhi i Panormasë.
Porto Palermo Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Porto Palermo Castle: why is it worth visiting?
Porto Palermo Castle is an impressive fortress situated on a small peninsula in one of the most beautiful bays of the Ionian Sea.
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